15 Fascinating Facts About IITs You Probably Didn't Know

IITs, standing tall as the epitome of technical education in India, have been the dream institutions for countless aspiring engineers. Known for their academic brilliance and top-notch facilities, these premier institutes are a beacon of excellence. However, amidst the fame and glory, there exist some lesser-known but utterly intriguing facts about these hallowed institutions that are waiting to be unraveled. Prepare to be amazed as we reveal some mind-blowing facts about IITs that have remained hidden in the shadows for too long!

General Glimpses

1. Entrance Exam Evolution

In the nascent years, IITs did not conduct any entrance exams. Admissions were solely based on students' academic records and interviews, which makes the initial selection process quite unique compared to the present-day JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) challenge.

2. Elite All-Male Beginnings

During their inception, the first batches of IITs consisted exclusively of male students, handpicked from the top ten rankers in their respective universities. However, with changing times, IITs embraced diversity and now welcome both genders with open arms.

3. Financial Backing

IITs receive substantial financial support from the Indian government, with annual grants ranging from 100 to 200 million rupees. In addition to government funding, they also receive contributions from enthusiastic alumni and academic fees.

4. International Acclaim

The prowess of IITians in research and innovation is globally recognized. In 2005, the United States Congress passed a House Resolution acknowledging the significant contributions of IITians in various fields, making IITs the only foreign universities to receive such commendation.

Intriguing Facts of IIT Bombay:

5. International Collaboration

IIT Bombay's establishment received invaluable support from UNESCO and the former Soviet Union, further emphasizing the institute's significance on the global stage.

6. Cultural Extravaganza

In 1971, IIT Bombay's 1975 batch initiated 'Mood Indigo,' Asia's largest cultural festival. The first Mood Indigo, however, took place in 1973. The festival's fame reached new heights when renowned artists R. D. Burman and Asha Bhosle graced its stage in 1981.

7. Splurging on Extravaganza

The budget for the 1997 Mood Indigo surpassed a whopping 24 lakhs rupees, dwarfing the budgets of other festivals in Bombay at that time.

8. Pioneering Women Graduates

In 1981, IIT Bombay witnessed a groundbreaking moment as the first-ever woman metallurgist graduated from the institute. Simultaneously, in the same year, the institute admitted its first female student into the Mechanical Engineering program.

IIT Roorkee's Astonishing Traits

9. Fastest Internet in India

IIT Roorkee boasts one of the highest internet speeds in India, clocking in well above the world's average and nearly six times faster than India's average internet speed.
IIT Kharagpur's Vast Expanse:

10. Vastness Defined

Covering an area equivalent to three times the combined size of Vatican City and Monaco, IIT Kharagpur's campus is colossal, sprawling over 8.5 square kilometers.

11. Historical Relic

IIT Kharagpur has a house called "Bomb House," which was used by the British during World War II to store bombs. Today, it serves as a staff quarter, preserving a piece of history on the campus.

Intricate Marvel of IIT Delhi

12. Architectural Brilliance

Dogra Hall's roof at IIT Delhi is a marvel of engineering. Specially designed by IIT professors, the hyperbolic paraboloid roof is supported only at the ends, showcasing a remarkable feat of structural engineering.
Enchanting Chronicles of IIT Madras:

13. A Sporting Encounter

The Australian cricket team once graced the grounds of IIT Madras for net practice at Chemplast, adding a touch of sportsmanship to the institute's legacy.

Enthralling IIT Kanpur Tales:

14. International Genesis

IIT Kanpur's inception can be attributed to the Kanpur Indo-American Programme, a consortium of nine American universities, including renowned institutions like MIT, Cornell, and CalTech.

15. Aeronautical Endeavors

It is rumored that IIT Kanpur boasts its airstrip solely for the benefit of Aeronautical Engineering students, further solidifying its reputation in the field of aviation.

Conclusion

As you delve into these fascinating facts, it becomes evident that IITs are not only repositories of knowledge and brilliance but also treasure troves of incredible stories and feats. The discovery of these secret treasures adds to the respect and awe for these revered institutions that continue to influence India's engineering and technological destiny. So, keep in mind that beneath the revered halls of an IIT lies an enigmatically woven tapestry of history and accomplishment just waiting to be unveiled.

Read our article Top 5 Most Successful People Who Graduated From IIT